His Encouragement #112

Welcome to His Encouragement Thursday! I don’t know about you, but Thursdays are my struggle day of the week. By Thursday, I have already been working hard at school and at home, and I just wish it would hurry up and be Friday already. LOL! I definitely need a little extra Jesus time on Thursdays.

Trisha, my blogger friend at Joy of Reading, and I decided on calling this post “His Encouragement” because our real source of peace, strength, and security can only come from Jesus Christ. He and He alone is our constant! We pray and hope that these Thursday posts become a real encouragement to you and help you end your week strong in God’s love and purpose for you. God bless!

Today’s Thursday Encouragement comes from:

Psalm 46:10 (God’s Word Translation)

Let go [of your concerns]! Then you will know that I am God. I rule the nations. I rule the earth.

I am overwhelmed.

I am overwhelmed with work. I have way more work than I do hours in the day. And, honestly, I don’t see an end to my workload anytime soon.

I am overwhelmed with my book reviews. It’s an absolute blessing, but I’ve got so many books coming from publishers and authors that I feel like I’m drowning. I have many novels I want to get to, but I feel I have to read the books being sent to me by publishers and authors first. Then I feel guilty for not being able to get to the books I want.

I am overwhelmed with life. One year ago today, my step-dad was killed in a car accident. Seven months ago my daughter was diagnosed with petit mal seizures and the medicine seems to be only somewhat working and I don’t know what to do to help my kid. I’m sad. I miss my dad so much. I’m sad. I don’t want my daughter to have these awful seizures. I don’t want kids telling her she is weird because she seizes in the middle of pretty much everything. I’m sad. And the sadness doesn’t go away. It sticks on me like a cloak no matter how much I pray and give it over to God.

I’m overwhelmed with my house. I can’t keep up with the cleaning. I try to utilize my weekends as best I can, but I can only do so much in two days. And, the chores never end. There is never a point where I can say, “I did it! I did all my chores!” (If you can say this, please tell me your secret! LOL!)

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I wanted to share a verse today that would encourage those of us who are currently feeling overwhelmed. I chose this translation of Psalm 46:10 because I love the way God’s voice is being illustrated.

God’s encouragement is this: “Hey guys! Stop stressing. I am God. I rule over everything — the nations, the earth. Because I rule over everything, I definitely can handle all that overwhelms you. If you’ve got concerns, give them to me. I rule over everything.”

Today, dear reader, if you are feeling overwhelmed, know that you are not alone. But also know that God is there for you. He is bigger than any concern you may have, and He is willing to take that burden from you. Go to Him, friend, and give Him your cares. God loves YOU!!!

NOW, IT’S YOUR TURN!

WHAT BIBLICAL VERSE IS ENCOURAGING YOU TODAY?

Check out more Thursday Encouragement from my fellow blogger friends:

Trisha @ Joy of Reading

Jacquelyn @ A Heavenly Home

Jessica @ A Baker’s Perspective

Becca @ The Becca Files

Gina @ Stories by Gina

Rebecca @ Rev. Rebecca Writes

Andi @ Radiant Light

Leslie @ Edits & Reviews by Leslie

Memorable Monday #69

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Welcome to Memorable Monday! The purpose of Memorable Monday is to showcase an influential book read in the past that still sticks with you today. This fun Monday morning post is hosted by the lovely Becca at The Becca Files.

This week, I am featuring:

Wings of a Dream

by Anne Mateer

10329469

Amazon

I remember that this book drew me in because of its gorgeous cover. I also thought the premise sounded engaging. I did struggle with the first 100 pages. I found that it took me a long time to get into the book because, to me, the first 1/3 of the book is rather slow. But then around the 40% mark, the book picks up and I could not put it down! So, I do recommend this read. Just keep in mind that for me it began rather slow, but I was more than satisfied by the story’s ending. In fact, the last 2/3 of the book is so good, I gave this novel a 4/5 star rating. Sometimes, we readers just have to be a little patient with a book. I found that was the case with this one.

About the Book

Debut Author Delivers Sweet Heartwarming Historical Fiction

Rebekah Hendricks dreams of a life far beyond her family’s farm in Oklahoma, and when dashing aviator Arthur Samson promises adventure in the big city, she is quick to believe he’s the man she’s meant to marry. While she waits for the Great War to end and Arthur to return to her so they can pursue all their plans, her mother’s sister falls ill.

Rebekah seizes the opportunity to travel to Texas to care for Aunt Adabelle, seeing this chance to be closer to Arthur’s training camp as God’s approval of her plans.

But the Spanish flu epidemic changes everything. Faced with her aunt’s death, Arthur’s indecisiveness, and four children who have no one else to care for them, Rebeka is torn between the desire to escape the type of life she’s always led and the unexpected love that just might change the dream of her heart.

NOW IT’S YOUR TURN!

Share a book you’ve read in the past and explain briefly why it’s so memorable to you in the comments below.

If you would like to join Memorable Mondays, check out Becca’s blog site by clicking HERE. Scroll to a Memorable Monday post for info.

The Thief of Lanwyn Manor (2020) — A Celebrate Lit Tour: Read an Excerpt + My Thoughts

About the Book

Book: The Thief of Lanwyn Manor

Series: Cornwall #2

Author: Sarah E. Ladd

Genre: Regency Romance

Release Date: January 7, 2020

In this sweet Regency romance, Julia knows Matthew Blake, copper mine owner and very eligible bachelor, is the gentleman she should set her eyes upon. But why can’t she steal her gaze away from his younger brother, Isaac?

Cornwall, England 1818—Julia Twethewey needs a diversion to mend her broken heart, so when her cousin invites her to Lanwyn Manor, Julia eagerly accepts. Lanwyn Manor is at the heart of Cornwall’s mining industry, and as a guest, Julia is swept into its intricate world. It’s not long, though, before she realizes something dark lurks in the home’s ancient halls.

As a respected mine owner’s younger son, Isaac Blake is determined to keep his late father’s legacy alive through the family business, despite his brother’s careless attitude. In order to save their livelihood—and the livelihood of those around them—the brothers approach the master of Lanwyn Manor with plans to bolster the floundering local industry. Isaac can’t deny his attraction to the man’s charming niece, but his brother has made his intentions to court the lovely guest clear. And Isaac knows his place.

When tragedy strikes, mysteries arise, and items go missing, Julia and Isaac find they are pulled together in a swirl of strange circumstances, but despite their own best efforts to bow to social expectations, their hearts aren’t so keen to surrender.

Click HERE to purchase your copy!

About the Author

sarahladd Sarah E. Ladd received the 2011 Genesis Award in historical romance for The Heiress of Winterwood. She is a graduate of Ball State University and has more than ten years of marketing experience. Sarah lives in Indiana with her amazing family and spunky golden retriever.

Website ℘ Facebook ℘ Twitter

Read an Excerpt

Click HERE to read an excerpt from The Thief of Lanwyn Manor.

My Thoughts

The Thief of Lanwyn Manor may be Sarah Ladd’s best novel yet. This story has it all — mystery, intrigue, suspense, and romance. This is the kind of story I hated to have to put down. The plot is super engaging. The characters are extremely well written. The writing is stellar; I felt like I was inside the story actively watching everything play out. The Thief of Lanwyn Manor is a story I won’t soon forget.

Isaac Blake is my favorite. He is a dreamboat of a hero — he’s manly and protective, he is handsome and compassionate, and he is honorable and intelligent. He always wants to make the right choice because he never wants to let anyone down or cause anyone unnecessary pain. Unfortunately for Isaac, his sense of never letting anyone down is so strong he sometimes becomes inactive and doesn’t make any decision at all. He gets so caught up in what could potentially go wrong that he becomes stagnant. A pastor I love to listen to — Alistair Begg — once said, “Tomorrow is the devil’s favorite word.” The idea here is that sometimes we put off today what we should do because we allow our fears to get the better of us. When this happens, we’re putting off God’s work. Isaac, because of his fear of failing others, has become very good at saying, “not today.” If God sets things up for us, it is our duty to overcome our fears and worries today so we can accomplish God’s will for us. Easier said than done, I know, but a great reminder for us today for sure. Does Isaac learn his lesson and overcome? Well, you’ll just have to purchase a copy of The Thief of Lanwyn Manor to find out!

The Thief of Lanwyn Manor is a highly engaging, well-written novel I highly recommend. Sarah Ladd is a fabulous storyteller, and I look forward to the third installment in this outstanding series.

I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the author via Celebrate Lit and NetGalley. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

BLOG STOPS

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 13

Genesis 5020, January 13

A Baker’s Perspective, January 13

For Him and My Family, January 14

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 14

Inklings and notions, January 14

Bigreadersite, January 15

For the Love of Literature, January 15

Texas Book-aholic, January 15

Through the Fire Blogs, January 16

Pause for Tales, January 16

Wishful Endings, January 16

deb’s Book Review, January 16

Betti Mace, January 17

KarenSueHadley, January 17

The Meanderings of a Bookworm, January 17

Robin’s Nest, January 18

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 18

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 18

The Christian Fiction Girl, January 19

Remembrancy, January 19

Books, Life, and Christ, January 19

Christian Chick’s Thoughts, January 20

My Devotional Thoughts, January 20

Hallie Reads, January 20

Blogging With Carol, January 20

Kat’s Corner Books, January 21

Life of Literature, January 21

Danielle Lozada, January 21

She Lives to Read, January 22

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 22

Jeanette’s Thoughts, January 22

By The Book, January 23

Blossoms and Blessings, January 23

SPLASHES of Joy, January 23

My Precious Bits and Musings, January 24

Mary Hake, January 24

Back Porch Reads, January 24

Daysong Reflections, January 24

Tell Tale Book Reviews, January 25

Mamma Loves Books, January 25

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, January 25

Hookmeinabook, January 26

Stephanie’s Life of Determination, January 26

Simple Harvest Reads, January 26 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

First-Line Friday #119

Lone Star Ranger

by Renae Brumbaugh Green

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About the Book

August, 1877

Houston, Texas

Elizabeth Covington inhaled the scent of freshly baked bread as the hansom driver pulled into Houston’s Market Square.

I’ve never read a novel by this author before, but I’m very excited to dive into this story. The premise really piqued my interest. I’m just starting chapter 3 so I’m really new to the story, but so far I like Brumbaugh Green’s style. It’s fast-paced and highly engaging. Check back soon for my review!

NOW IT IS YOUR TURN!

GRAB THE BOOK YOU ARE CURRENTLY READING, OPEN TO CHAPTER ONE, AND POST THE FIRST SENTENCE (OR SECOND SENTENCE) IN THE COMMENTS BELOW.

THEN HEAD ON OVER TO HOARDING BOOKS TO SEE ALL OF THE FLF PAGES THIS WEEK (JUST CLICK ON THE FLF BUTTON BELOW).

His Encouragement #111

Today’s Thursday Encouragement comes from:

Nehemiah 4:10 (ESV)

In Judah it was said, “The strength of those who bear the burdens is failing. There is too much rubble. By ourselves we will not be able to rebuild the wall.

There is too much rubble.

I’ve been there. Life gets super overwhelming and I want to give up. My “give-up” feelings come when I get stuck looking at the big picture instead of seeing life’s tasks in do-able chunks. This is where the Judeans mentally are in this verse from Nehemiah. Instead of working one stone at a time, they are looking at the big picture — rebuilding all of God’s temple. The task has become a BIG burden, and now they want to give up. Life has become too much rubble.

When life gets to the point where it’s too much, I take encouragement from Job. In all of the Bible, except for Jesus, no one suffers quite like Job. But through his suffering, he draws closer to God. In Job 1:20 we are told, “Job arose and tore his robe and shaved his head and fell on the ground and worshipped.” The extent of Job’s grief is ginormous. He is the definition of overwhelmed. But instead of giving up, he falls to the ground and worships God.

When life feels like there is too much rubble as it did to the Judeans in Nehemiah’s day, we need to go to God. We need to bear all to Him. When we do, He frees us of the burden and allows life to feel less chaotic.

Today, dear reader, if you are struggling and stuck in the big picture of your life, go to God. He’s waiting and ready to hear from you!

NOW, IT’S YOUR TURN!

WHAT BIBLICAL VERSE IS ENCOURAGING YOU TODAY?

Check out more Thursday Encouragement from my fellow blogger friends:

Trisha @ Joy of Reading

Jacquelyn @ A Heavenly Home

Jessica @ A Baker’s Perspective

Becca @ The Becca Files

Gina @ Stories by Gina

Rebecca @ Rev. Rebecca Writes

Andi @ Radiant Light

Leslie @ Edits & Reviews by Leslie

The Blizzard Bride (2020)

About the Book

Book: The Blizzard Bride

Series: Daughters of the Mayflower #11

Author: Susanne Dietze

Genre: Historical Romance

Release Date: January 15, 2020 (eBook), February 1, 2020 (paperback)

A Blizzard Changes Everything

Abigail Bracey arrives in Nebraska in January 1888 to teach school…and to execute a task for the government: to identify a student as the hidden son of a murderous counterfeiter—the man who killed her father.

Agent Dashiell Lassiter doesn’t want his childhood sweetheart Abby on this dangerous job, especially when he learns the counterfeiter is now searching for his son, too, and he’ll destroy anyone in his way. Now Dash must follow Abby to Nebraska to protect her…if she’ll let him within two feet of her. She’s still angry he didn’t fight to marry her six years ago, and he never told her the real reason he left her.

All Dash wants is to protect Abby, but when a horrifying blizzard sweeps over them, can Abby and Dash set aside the pain from their pasts and work together to catch a counterfeiter and protect his son—if they survive the storm?

Click HERE to purchase your eBook copy!

Click HERE to pre-order your paperback copy!

My Thoughts

The Blizzard Bride by Susanne Dietze is a wild ride. I mean the kind of ride that leaves the reader holding her breath and clinging to the edge of her seat. These Daughters of the Mayflower novels are excellent, and with each subsequent novel, they just keep getting better and better. Just when I think, “Aw, that book was the best!”, another story comes out and blows me away with its awesomeness. The Blizzard Bride packs a serious punch in only 256 pages and is definitely one of my favorites in this series.

Abby, the heroine of The Blizzard Bride, has had a rough few years. The love of her life up and left her with NO explanation, her father was murdered, she and her mother lost everything because of his death — their finances, their home, and their social standing. Eventually, Abby’s mother dies from a broken heart. And, Abby has broken ties with God. If He is going to abandon her, she thinks, then she will abandon Him. In six year’s time, Abby has slowly become a bitter, angry, and spite-filled woman bent on making the villains pay. She has closed herself off — no God, no friends, no loved ones. Abby figures that if she is closed off from everyone and everything she will save herself from getting hurt. But then Abby meets curmudgeonly Mr. Yates and sees a glimpse into what her future will be if she continues her path of anger and isolation. So Abby makes the only choice she can — she befriends Mr. Yates. She recognizes that, like her, Mr. Yates has some serious trauma that’s not been properly dealt with, and so reaches out to him in an attempt to get them both back on the right track.

This subplot in The Blizzard Bride provides an excellent warning to us all — it is imperative that we deal with our lives with God, or we will end up alone and deeply hurting. This actually makes me think of Psalm 32:2-3 (ESV; my emphasis): “Blessed is the man against whom the Lord counts no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit. For when I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groanings all day long.” When Abby stops and really takes a look at Mr. Yates she sees dark, deep pouches under his eyes, a permanent downcast to his mouth, tight, crossed arms, and stooped shoulders. Clearly, Mr. Yate’s anger, hatred, and alienation have worn him down and he is wasting away. Abby comes to understand as David does in this Psalm, that unconfessed pain and sin eat at us and hurts our physical and spiritual selves. Abby realizes that she must turn back to God, speak her feelings, confess her sins, and ask for forgiveness. Mrs. Dietze’s subplot beautifully points out that when we turn to the One who can truly heal, we find the real peace we need in order to move beyond the hurts of our past.

As I stated above, this book packs a punch. In fact, it contains multitudes. There are super endearing characters that I won’t soon forget. A winter storm that terrified me. In fact, I didn’t take a full breath for three chapters because the storm is that intense. The romance is sweet and the mystery is captivating. All in all, The Blizzard Bride is a great read I highly recommend. This book is another home run by Susie Dietze.

I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the author via her publisher, Barbour Books through NetGalley. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Memorable Monday #68

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This week, I am featuring:

A Bride for Keeps

Unexpected Brides #1

by Melissa Jagears

17350829

Amazon

Bride for Keeps is a good debut novel. I thought that, overall, it does a good job of setting up the series. I did find parts of the story a bit slow, but overall a good story. My favorite aspect is the friendships created between the various female characters. If you are in the mood for a sweet romance with a historical setting, this is definitely a book to consider.

About the Book

Everett Cline will never humiliate himself by seeking a mail-order bride. Not again. He’s already been jilted by three mail-order brides and figures a wife just isn’t in his future. However, a well-meaning neighbor hasn’t given up on seeing him settled, so she goes behind his back to bring yet another woman to town for him.

Julia Lockwood has never been anything more than a pretty pawn for her father or a business acquisition for her former fiance. A mail-order marriage in faraway Kansas is a last resort, but she’ll do anything to leave her life in Massachusetts and the heartbreak she’s experienced there.

Although Everett doesn’t see how a beautiful, cultured woman like Julia could be happy sharing his simple life, he could really use a helpmate on his homestead. Determined to prove she’s more than just a pretty face, Julia agrees to a marriage in name only. Faced with the harsh realities of life on the prairie and hesitant to explore the tentative feelings growing between them, can Everett and Julia ever let each other in long enough to fall in love?

NOW IT’S YOUR TURN!

Share a book you’ve read in the past and explain briefly why it’s so memorable to you in the comments below.

If you would like to join Memorable Mondays, check out Becca’s blog site by clicking HERE. Scroll to a Memorable Monday post for info.